This is a very true, somewhat depressing statement. What is the first thing everyone who wants to lose weight does? They join a gym. For the small percentage of people who actually then go to the gym, the results can be disappointing, discouraging them from continuing. Unfortunately, the weight doesn’t melt off when you step on the treadmill. But … there are so many other reasons to exercise, and focusing on these, instead of the number on the scale, can keep you motivated.

Read about womens’ risk of heart attacks.

1. The heart is a muscle.Exercising will make it stronger. It will also lower blood pressure and cholesterol, all of these combining to make it much easier for your ticker to do its job.

2. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and has been proven to keep you sharp and improve your memory.